Communication device, communication method, program and communication system

ABSTRACT

A communication device is provided and includes: an electromagnetic-wave generating means for outputting an electromagnetic wave; and a transmitting/receiving means for transmitting data by modulating the electromagnetic wave in accordance with data as well as receiving data transmitted from the other device by demodulating the electromagnetic wave outputted by the electromagnetic-wave generating means or the electromagnetic wave outputted by the other device as the other party of communication, wherein the transmitting/receiving means transmits attribute information indicating communication ability of the device itself as well as receives attribute information indicating communication ability of the other device as the data, and the electromagnetic-wave generating means turns off the output of the electromagnetic wave for a given period of time after the transmission of the data based on the attribute information.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to Japanese Priority PatentApplication JP 2008-302484 filed in the Japan Patent Office on Nov. 27,2008, the entire content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a communication device, acommunication method, a program and a communication system, andparticularly relates to a communication device, a communication method,a program and a communication system capable of reducing powerconsumption.

A near-field wireless communication system performing contactlesswireless communication in a near field by using an IC (IntegratedCircuit) card is widely used. For example, applications as an electronicticket and electronic money are well known. Recently, a cell phoneincluding functions of the electronic ticket and the electronic money isbecoming popular.

In the near-field wireless communication system, there exist aproximity-type IC card system prescribed as ISO/IEC 14443, avicinity-type IC card system prescribed as ISO/IEC 15693, a NFC (NearField Communication) prescribed as ISO/IEC 18092 and the like. ISO/IEC18092 is a standard of NFCIP (Near Field Communication Interface andProtocol)-1.

There are an active mode and a passive mode in the near-field wirelesscommunication by ISO/IEC 18092. The active mode is a communication modein which electromagnetic waves are outputted in plural communicationdevices which transmit and receive data, and data is transmitted bymodulating the electromagnetic waves. In the passive mode, onecommunication device (initiator) in the plural communication devicesoutputs an electromagnetic wave and data is transmitted by modulatingthe electromagnetic wave. Another communication device (target) in theplural communication devices transmits data by performing loadmodulation of the electromagnetic wave outputted by the initiator.

A “PCD” (Proximity Coupling Device) which is a reader/writer of ISO/IEC14443, a “VCD” (Vicinity Coupling Device) which is a reader/writer ofISO/IEC 15693 and an initiator in the passive mode of ISO/IEC 18092 forma so-called RF (Radio Frequency) field (magnetic field) by generatingthe electromagnetic wave. An IC card of ISO/IEC 14443 (PICC), an IC cardof ISO/IEC 15693 (VICC) and the target of ISO/IEC 18092 receives powersupply by electromagnetic induction when coming close to thereader/writer or the initiator and can perform data transmission withrespect to the reader/writer or the initiator.

Accordingly, it is necessary that the reader/writer of ISO/IEC 14443 andISO/IEC 15693 and the initiator of ISO/IEC 18092 continue generating theelectromagnetic wave for a long period of time with the main aim ofsupplying power to the IC card or the target. Therefore, there is aproblem that power consumption of the reader/writer and the initiator isincreased. For example, when the cell phone having functions of thereader/writer or the initiator performs output of the electromagneticwave as described above, operable time which is 200 hours to 600 hoursin just a normal stand-by state will be reduced to less than 1/10.

Various studies concerning techniques for reducing power consumptionhave been made until now (for example, JP-T-2008-533604, JP-A-11-126240and JP-A-11-338984 (Patent Documents 1 to 3)).

However, particularly in the case that the near-field wirelesscommunication function is included in a buttery-driven electronicapparatus such as the cell phone, a request for power saving is stillgreat, and further reduction of power consumption is desired. Thus, itis desirable to reduce power consumption.

SUMMARY

According to an embodiment, there is provided a communication deviceincluding an electromagnetic-wave generating means for outputting anelectromagnetic wave and a transmitting/receiving means for transmittingdata by modulating the electromagnetic wave in accordance with data aswell as receiving data transmitted from the other device by demodulatingthe electromagnetic wave outputted by the electromagnetic-wavegenerating means or the electromagnetic wave outputted by the otherdevice as the other party of communication, in which thetransmitting/receiving means transmits attribute information indicatingcommunication ability of the device itself as well as receives attributeinformation indicating communication ability of the other device asdata, and the electromagnetic-wave generating means turns off the outputof the electromagnetic wave for a given period of time after thetransmission of the data based on the attribute information.

In an active mode in which data is transmitted by modulating theelectromagnetic wave in accordance with data as well as data transmittedfrom the other device is received by demodulating the electromagneticwave outputted by the other device, the electromagnetic-wave generatingmeans can turn off output of the electromagnetic wave for a given periodof time shorter than an initial delay time which is the minimum time forwhich a device which intends to start transmission/reception of datahave to check that the electromagnetic wave is not output.

In the active mode in which data is transmitted by modulating theelectromagnetic wave in accordance with data as well as data transmittedfrom the other device is received by demodulating the electromagneticwave outputted by the other device, the attribute informationtransmitted and received by the transmitting/receiving means includesinformation concerning the given period of time for which output of theelectromagnetic wave is turned off, and the electromagnetic-wavegenerating means can turn off output of the electromagnetic wave for thegiven time determined by the attribute information.

When the given period of time is longer than the initial delay timewhich is the minimum time for which a device which intends to starttransmission/reception of data have to check that the electromagneticwave is not output, it is possible that the communication device doesnot respond to output of the electromagnetic wave from another devicewhich intends to start transmission/reception of data until thecommunication mode in which output of the electromagnetic wave is turnedoff during the given period of time is released.

According to another embodiment, there is provided a communicationmethod in a communication device including an electromagnetic-wavegenerating means for outputting an electromagnetic wave and atransmitting/receiving means for transmitting data by modulating theelectromagnetic wave in accordance with data as well as receiving datatransmitted from the other device by demodulating the electromagneticwave outputted by the electromagnetic-wave generating means or theelectromagnetic wave outputted by the other device as the other party ofcommunication, which includes the steps of transmitting attributeinformation indicating communication ability of the device itself aswell as receiving attribute information indicating communication abilityof the other device as data by the transmitting/receiving means andturning off output of the electromagnetic wave for a given period oftime after transmission of the data based on the attribute informationby the electromagnetic-wave generating means.

According to still another embodiment, there is provided a programallowing a computer to execute processing of transmitting attributeinformation indicating communication ability of the device itself aswell as receiving attribute information indicating communication abilityof the other device as data by the transmitting/receiving means fortransmitting data by modulating the electromagnetic wave in accordancewith data as well as receiving data transmitted from the other device bydemodulating the electromagnetic wave outputted by theelectromagnetic-wave generating means or the electromagnetic waveoutputted by the other device as the other party of communication, andturning off output of the electromagnetic wave for a given period oftime after transmission of the data based on the attribute informationby the electromagnetic-wave generating means.

According to the embodiments, attribute information indicatingcommunication ability of the device itself is transmitted as well asattribute information indicating communication ability of the otherdevice is received as data, and output of the electromagnetic wave isturned off for a given period of time after the transmission of the databased on the received attribute information.

According to yet another embodiment, there is provided a communicationsystem including a first communication device and a second communicationdevice which is the other party of communication, in which the firstcommunication device has an electromagnetic-wave generating means foroutputting an electromagnetic wave and a first transmitting/receivingmeans for transmitting data by modulating the electromagnetic wave inaccordance with data as well as receiving data transmitted from thesecond communication device by demodulating the electromagnetic waveoutputted by the electromagnetic-wave generating means or theelectromagnetic wave outputted by the second communication device, thefirst transmitting/receiving means transmits attribute informationindicating communication ability of the first communication device aswell as receives attribute information indicating communication abilityof the second communication device as data, the electromagnetic-wavegenerating means turns off output of the electromagnetic wave for agiven period of time after transmission of the data based on theattribute information, the second communication device has a secondtransmitting/receiving means for receiving data transmitted from thefirst communication device by demodulating the electromagnetic waveoutputted by the first communication device as well as transmitting databy modulating the electromagnetic wave outputted by the firstcommunication device or the electromagnetic wave outputted by the devicefor itself in accordance with the data, and the secondtransmitting/receiving means receives attribute information indicatingcommunication ability of the first communication device as well astransmits attribute information indicating communication ability of thesecond communication device as data.

In the first communication device according to the embodiment, attributeinformation indicating communication ability of the first communicationdevice is transmitted as well as attribute information indicatingcommunication ability of the second communication device is received asdata, and output of the electromagnetic wave is turned off for a givenperiod of time after the transmission of the data based on the receivedattribute information. In the second communication device, attributeinformation indicating communication ability of the first communicationdevice is received as well as attribute information indicatingcommunication ability of the second communication device is transmittedas data.

The program can be provided by being transmitted through a transmissionmedium or provided by being recorded in a recording medium.

The communication device may be an independent device or may be aninternal block included in one device.

According to the embodiments, it is possible to reduce powerconsumption.

Additional features and advantages are described herein, and will beapparent from the following Detailed Description and the figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example as anembodiment of a communication system;

FIG. 2 is a diagram explaining a passive mode;

FIG. 3 is a diagram explaining an active mode;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an NFCcommunication device;

FIG. 5 is a timing chart explaining initial RFCA processing;

FIG. 6 is a timing chart explaining response RFCA processing;

FIG. 7 is a chart showing a command set prescribed in ISO/IEC 18092;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart explaining an outline of communication processingcomplying with NFCIP-1;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart explaining processing performed by the NFCcommunication device for exchanging data in the passive mode;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart explaining processing performed in the NFCcommunication device for exchanging data in the active mode;

FIG. 11 is a view explaining communication in a power saving mode;

FIG. 12 is a view explaining communication in the power saving mode;

FIG. 13 is a chart showing an extended command set;

FIG. 14 is a chart showing a structure of a command ATR_REQ;

FIG. 15 is a chart showing a structure of a PPi field;

FIG. 16 is a chart showing a structure of a command ATR_RES;

FIG. 17 is a chart showing a structure of a PPt field;

FIG. 18 is a chart showing a structure of a command PSL2_REQ;

FIG. 19 is a chart showing a structure of a FLAG field;

FIG. 20 is a chart showing a structure of a command PSL2_RES;

FIG. 21 is a chart showing a structure of a MSG field;

FIG. 22 is a flowchart explaining communication processing in the caseof performing the communication in the power saving mode;

FIG. 23 is a flowchart explaining communication processing in the caseof performing the communication in the power saving mode;

FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a cellphone in which the NFC communication device is incorporated; and

FIG. 25 is a view explaining a relation formula of magnetic fluxdensity.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows a configuration example as an embodiment of a communicationsystem (“system” indicates plural devices which are logically coupled,and it does not matter whether the devices of respective configurationsare included in the same casing or not).

In FIG. 1, the communication system includes three NFC communicationdevices 1, 2 and 3. Respective NFC communication devices 1 to 3 canperform near field communication (NFC) by electromagnetic inductionusing a carrier wave of a single frequency with another NFCcommunication device.

As the frequency of the carrier wave used by the NFC communicationdevices 1 to 3, for example, 13.56 MHz ISM (Industrial ScientificMedical) band can be applied.

The near field communication indicates communication which can beperformed when the distance between devices performing communicationcome close within several ten centimeters, including communicationperformed in a state in which (casings of) devices performingcommunication are contact with each other.

The communication shown in FIG. 1 can be applied as an IC card system inwhich one or more of the NFC communication devices 1 to 3 may be areader/writer and another one or more of them may be an IC card. Thatis, the NFC communication devices 1 to 3 are devices which perform nearfield communication, which are not limited to any of the IC card and thereader/writer in the IC card system, or communication devices complyingwith the NFC standard. It is also possible to apply the respective NFCcommunication devices 1 to 3 as communication systems of a PDA (PersonalDigital Assistant), a PC (Personal Computer), a cell phone, a watch, apen and the like.

[Explanation of a Passive Mode and an Active Mode]

The NFC communication devices 1 to 3 can perform communication in twocommunication modes which are a passive mode and an active mode. Forexample, note the communication between the NFC communication device 1and the NFC communication device 2 in the NFC communication devices 1 to3. In the passive mode, for example, the NFC communication device 1which is one NFC communication device of the NFC communication device 1and the NFC communication device 2 modulates an (carrier wavecorresponding to) electromagnetic wave generated for itself to therebytransmit data to the NFC communication device 2 which is the other NFCcommunication device. The NFC communication device 2 performs loadmodulation of the (carrier wave corresponding to) electromagnetic wavegenerated by the NFC communication device 1 to thereby transmit data tothe NFC communication device 1. This is the same as IC card systems ofISO/IEC 14443 and ISO/IEC 15693.

On the other hand, in the active mode, both the NFC communication device1 and the NFC communication device 2 modulate the (carrier wavecorresponding to) electromagnetic wave generated for themselves tothereby transmit data.

Here, when the near field communication by electromagnetic induction isperformed, a device which starts communication by outputting theelectromagnetic wave at first, that is, the device having the initiativeis called an initiator. The near field communication is performed in amanner in which the initiator transmits a command to the other party ofcommunication and the other party of communication makes a response tothe command. The other party of communication which makes a response toa command from the initiator is called a target.

For example, assuming that the NFC communication device 1 starts outputof the electromagnetic wave to start communication with the NFCcommunication device 2, the NFC communication device 1 becomes theinitiator and the NFC communication device 2 becomes the target.

In the passive mode, the NFC communication device 1 which is theinitiator continues outputting the electromagnetic wave and modulatesthe electromagnetic wave outputted for itself to thereby transmit datato the NFC communication device 2 which is the target as shown in FIG.2. The NFC communication device 2 performs load modulation of theelectromagnetic wave outputted by the NFC communication device 1 whichis the initiator to thereby transmit data to the NFC communicationdevice 1.

On the other hand, in the active mode, when the NFC communication device1 itself transmits data, the NFC communication device 1 which is theinitiator starts output of the electromagnetic wave for itself andmodulates the electromagnetic wave to thereby transmit data to the NFCcommunication device 2 which is the target as shown in FIG. 3. Then, theNFC communication device 1 stops output of the electromagnetic waveafter data transmission is completed. The NFC communication device 2also starts output of the electromagnetic wave for itself and modulatesthe electromagnetic wave to thereby transmit data to the NFCcommunication device 1 which is the target when the NFC communicationdevice 2 itself transmits data. Then, the NFC communication device 2stops output of the electromagnetic wave after data transmission iscompleted.

In FIG. 1, the communication system is configured by three NFCcommunication devices 1 to 3, however, the NFC communication devicesincluded in the communication system are not limited to three, and twodevices, or four or more devices may be included in the system.Moreover, the communication system can be configured by including, forexample, the IC card, the reader/writer and the like configuring the ICcard systems of ISO/IEC 14443 and the ISO/IEC 15693.

[Configuration Example of the NFC Communication Device 1]

FIG. 4 shows a configuration example of the NFC communication device 1of FIG. 1. Since other NFC communication device 2 and the NFCcommunication device 3 in FIG. 1 are also configured in the same manneras the NFC communication device 1 of FIG. 4, the explanations thereofare omitted.

An antenna 11 forms a closed loop coil, outputting the electromagneticwave by electric current flowing in the coil being changed. Magneticflux passing through the coil as the antenna 11 is changed, therebyallowing electric current to flow in the antenna 11.

A receiving unit 12 receives electric current flowing in the antenna 11and outputs the current to a demodulation unit 13 after performingtuning and detection. The demodulation unit 13 demodulates a signalsupplied from the receiving unit 12 and supplies the signal to adecoding unit 14. The decoding unit 14 decodes a signal, for example, aManchester code, which is supplied from the demodulation unit 13,supplying data obtained as a result of the decoding to a data processingunit 15.

The data processing unit 15 performs given processing based on datasupplied from the decoding unit 14. The data processing unit 15 suppliesdata to be transmitted to another device to the encoding unit 16.

The encoding unit 16 encodes data supplied from the data processing unit15 into, for example, the Manchester code and supplies the data to aselection unit 17. The selection unit 17 selects one of a modulationunit 19 or a load modulation unit 20 and outputs the signal suppliedfrom the encoding unit 16 to the selected unit.

Here, the selection unit 17 selects the modulation unit 19 or the loadmodulation unit 20 under the control of a control unit 21. When thecommunication mode is the passive mode and the NFC communication device1 is the target, the control unit 21 allows the selection unit 17 toselect the load modulation unit 20. When the communication mode is theactive mode or when the communication mode is the passive mode as wellas the NFC communication device 1 is the initiator, the control unit 21allows the selection unit 17 to select the modulation unit 19.Therefore, the signal outputted from the encode unit 16 is supplied tothe load modulation unit 20 through the selection unit 17 in the casethat the communication mode is the passive mode and the NFCcommunication device 1 is the target, however, the signal is supplied tothe modulation unit 19 through the selection unit 17 in other cases.

An electromagnetic-wave output unit 18 allows electric current to flowin the antenna 11, which is for emitting (the electromagnetic wave of)the carrier wave of a given single frequency from the antenna 11. Themodulation unit 19 modulates the carrier wave as electric currentflowing in the antenna 11 by the electromagnetic-wave output unit 18 inaccordance with the signal supplied from the selection unit 17.Accordingly, the electromagnetic wave obtained by modulating the carrierwave in accordance with data outputted to the encoding unit 16 by thedata processing unit 15 is emitted from the antenna 11.

The load modulation unit 20 changes impedance when seeing the coil asthe antenna 11 from the outside in accordance with the signal suppliedfrom the selection unit 17. When an RF field (magnetic field) is formedaround the antenna 11 by another device outputting the electromagneticwave as the carrier wave, the impedance when seeing the coil as theantenna 11 is changed, thereby also changing the RF field around theantenna 11. Accordingly, the carrier wave as the electromagnetic waveoutputted by another device is modulated (load modulation) in accordancewith the signal supplied from the selection unit 17, and data outputtedto the encoding unit 16 by the data processing unit 15 is transmitted toanother device which outputs the electromagnetic wave.

As a modulation method in the modulation unit 19 and the load modulationunit 20, for example, Amplitude Shift Keying (ASK) can be applied.However, the modulation method in the modulation unit 19 and the loadmodulation unit 20 is not limited to the ASK but methods such as PhaseShift Keying (PSK) and Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM) and thelike can be applied. The amplitude modulation degree is not limited to acertain numeral but can be suitably selected such as 8% to 30%, 50% and100%.

The control unit 21 performs control and the like of respective blocksincluded in the NFC communication device 1. That is, the control unit 21includes a CPU (Central Processing unit) 21A, an EEPROM (Electricallyand Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) 21B, a not-shown RAM (RandomAccess Memory) and the like. The CPU 21A executes programs stored in theEEPROM 21B, thereby performing control of respective blocks included inthe NFC communication device 1 and performing other various processing.The EEPROM 21B stores programs to be executed by the CPU 21A and datanecessary for operations of the CPU 21A.

A series of processing performed by executing programs by the CPU 21Acan be executed by dedicated hardware provided instead of the CPU 21A.The programs to be executed by the CPU 21A can be installed in theEEPROM 21B in advance, or can be stored (recorded) temporarily orpermanently in removable recording media such as a flexible disc, aCD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a MO (Magneto Optical) disc, aDVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a magnetic disc and a semiconductor memoryto be provided as so-called packaged software. Moreover, the programscan be transmitted to the NFC communication device 1 by the near fieldcommunication and installed in the EEPROM 21B.

A power supply unit 22 supplies necessary power to respective blocksincluded in the NFC communication device 1. In FIG. 4, lines indicatingthat the control unit 21 controls respective blocks included in the NFCcommunication device 1 are omitted because the drawing becomescomplicated. Additionally, lines indicating that the power supply unit22 supplies power to respective blocks included in the NFC communicationdevice 1 are also omitted. The power supply unit may include a batteryor may obtain power to be power supply from electric current flowing inthe antenna 11 without including the battery. In the latter case, theNFC communication device 1 operates only as the target in the passivemode.

In the above case, the decoding unit 14 and the encoding unit 16 processthe Manchester code. However, it is also possible that the decoding unit14 and the encoding unit 16 not only process the Manchester code butalso select one of plural types of codes such as a modified mirror andan NRZ (Non Return to Zero) and process the code.

[Explanation of RFCA Processing]

Any of the NFC communication devices 1 to 3 can be an initiator whichoutputs the electromagnetic wave at first to start communication.Moreover, in the active mode, the NFC communication devices 1 to 3output the electromagnetic wave for themselves both in the case that thedevice becomes the initiator and in the case that the device becomes thetarget.

Therefore, when two or more NFC communication devices outputelectromagnetic waves at the same time in a state in which the NFCcommunication devices 1 to 3 are close to each other, collision occursand it is difficult to perform communication.

Accordingly, the respective NFC communication devices 1 to 3 detectwhether there exist (the RF field of) the electromagnetic wave fromanother device or not, and starts output of the electromagnetic waveonly when there do not exist the electromagnetic wave, thereby avoidingthe collision. Here, the processing which detects whether there existsthe electromagnetic wave from another device or not and starts output ofthe electromagnetic wave only when there does not exist theelectromagnetic wave is called RFCA (RF Collision Avoidance) for thepurpose of avoiding the collision.

The RFCA processing has two processing which are initial RFCA processingperformed for the first time by the NFC communication device (one ormore devices in the NFC communication devices 1 to 3 in FIG. 1) whichintends to become the initiator and response RFCA processing performedby the NFC communication device which starts output of theelectromagnetic wave on every start during communication in the activemode. The initial RFCA processing and the response RFCA processing arethe same in the point that whether there exists the electromagnetic wavefrom another device or not is detected before starting output of theelectromagnetic wave and the output of the electromagnetic wave isstarted only when there does not exist the electromagnetic wave.However, the initial RFCA processing differs from the response RFCAprocessing in the time from the timing when existence of theelectromagnetic wave from another device is not detected until thetiming when output of the electromagnetic wave should be started.

[Explanation of the Initial RFCA Processing]

The initial RFCA processing will be explained with reference to FIG. 5.

FIG. 5 shows an electromagnetic wave the output of which is started bythe initial RFCA processing. In FIG. 5 (same as later-described FIG. 6),the horizontal axis represents time and the vertical axis representspower (level) of the electromagnetic wave outputted by the NFCcommunication device.

The NFC communication device which intends to become the initiatorperforms detection of electromagnetic waves from other devices at anytime, starting output of the electromagnetic wave when theelectromagnetic wave from another device is not detected for a timeT_(IDT)+n×T_(RFW) continuously. In the NFCIP-1, it is prescribed thatthe initiator outputs the electromagnetic wave in the power from 1.5 A/mto 7.5 A/m. That is, it is necessary that the initiator outputs theelectromagnetic wave in the power at least 1.5 A/m or more.

The NFC communication device which intends to become the initiatorstarts transmission (Send Request) of data (including a command) after atime T_(IRFG) has passed from the output start of the electromagneticwave.

Here, T_(IDT) in the time T_(IDT)+n×T_(RFW) is the minimum time forwhich the NFC communication device which starts transmission/receptionof data as the initiator have to check that the electromagnetic wave isnot outputted, which is called an initial delay time. When a frequencyof a carrier wave of the initial delay time is represented by “fc”, forexample, a value higher than 4096/fc will be applied. “n” is, forexample, an integer of “0” or more to 3 or less, which is generated byusing random numbers. T_(RFW) is called an RF waiting time and, forexample, 512/fc will be applied. A time T_(IRFG) is called an initialguard time and, for example, a value higher than 5 ms will be applied.

The “n” generated by random numbers is applied to the timeT_(IDT)+n×T_(RFW) for which the electromagnetic wave should not bedetected, thereby reducing probability that plural NFC communicationdevices start output of electromagnetic waves at the same timing.

When the NFC communication device starts output of the electromagneticwave by the initial RFCA processing, that NGC communication devicebecomes the initiator. Then, when the active mode is set as thecommunication mode, the NFC communication device which has become theinitiator stops output of the electromagnetic wave after completingtransmission of data of the device. On the other hand, when the passivemode is set as the communication mode, the NFC communication devicewhich has become initiator continues outputting the electromagnetic wavestarted by the initial RFCA processing until the communication with thetarget is fully completed.

[Explanation of the Response RFCA Processing]

Next, the response RFCA processing will be explained with reference toFIG. 6.

FIG. 6 shows an electromagnetic wave the output of which is started bythe response RFCA processing.

The NFC communication device which intends to output the electromagneticwave in the active mode performs detection of electromagnetic waves fromother devices, starts output of the electromagnetic wave when theelectromagnetic wave from another device is not detected for a timeT_(ADT)+n×T_(RFW) continuously, then, starts transmission (Send Request)of data after a time T_(ARFG) has passed from the output.

Here, “n” and “T_(RFW)” in the time T_(ADT)+n×T_(RFW) are the same as inthe case of the initial RFCA processing of FIG. 5. “T_(ADT)” in the timeT_(ADT)+n×T_(RFW) is called an active delay time and, for example, avalue of 768/fc or higher as well as 2559/fc or lower will be applied. Atime T_(ARFG) is called an active guard time and, for example, a valuehigher than 1024/fc will be applied.

As apparent from FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, in order to start output of theelectromagnetic wave by the initial RFCA processing, the electromagneticwave should not exist at least for the initial delay time T_(IDT). Inorder to start output of the electromagnetic wave by the response RFCAprocessing, the electromagnetic wave should not exist at least for theactive delay time T_(ADT).

The initial delay time T_(IDT) is a value higher than 4096/fc, whereasthe active delay time T_(ADT) is a value of 768/fc or higher as well as2559/fc or lower, therefore, when the NFC communication device intendsto become the initiator, the state in which the electromagnetic wavedoes not exist is necessary for a longer period of time than the case ofoutputting the electromagnetic wave during the communication in theactive mode. In other words, when the NFC communication device outputsthe electromagnetic wave during the communication in the active mode,the device have to output the electromagnetic wave without a long pauseafter the state in which electromagnetic wave does not exist as comparedwith the case in which the device intends to become the initiator.

That is, when the NFC communication device performs communication in theactive mode, one NFC communication device outputs the electromagneticwave for itself to transmit data, after that, stops output of theelectromagnetic wave. Then, the other NFC communication device startsoutput of the electromagnetic wave to transmit data. Therefore, in thecommunication of the active mode, there exists a period in which bothNFC communication devices stops output of the electromagnetic wave.Accordingly, when the NFC communication device intends to become theinitiator, it is necessary that the device checked that another devicedoes not output the electromagnetic wave around the NFC communicationdevice which intends to become the initiator for a sufficient period oftime for checking that the active-mode communication is not performedaround the NFC communication device.

In the active mode, the initiator outputs the electromagnetic wave tothereby transmit data to the target as described above. Then, the targetstarts output of the electromagnetic wave after the initiator stopsoutput of the electromagnetic wave to thereby transmit data to theinitiator. After that, the initiator starts output of theelectromagnetic wave after the target stops output of theelectromagnetic wave to thereby transmit data to the target, after that,data is exchanged between the initiator and the target in the samemanner.

Therefore, in the case that there exists the NFC communication devicewhich intends to become the initiator in the vicinity of the initiatorand the target performing communication of the active mode, when theperiod of time from the timing at which one of the initiator and thetarget performing the active-mode communication stops output of theelectromagnetic wave until the timing at which the other starts outputof the electromagnetic wave is long, the electromagnetic wave does notexist during the period, therefore, the NFC communication device whichintends to become the initiator starts output of the electromagneticwave by the initial RFCA processing. In this case, the communication ofthe active mode which has been already performed is interrupted.

Accordingly, in the response RFCA processing performed during theactive-mode communication, it is prescribed that the device have tooutput the electromagnetic wave without a long pause after the state inwhich electromagnetic wave does not exist.

[Recognition of the Target at the Time of Starting Communication]

The NFC communication device which intends to become the initiatorstarts output of the electromagnetic wave by the initial RFCA processingas explained in FIG. 5, after that, performs transmission of data. TheNFC communication device which intends to become the initiator becomesthe initiator by starting output of the electromagnetic wave and the NFCcommunication device existing at a position close to the initiator willbe the target.

Here, in order to exchange data between the initiator and the target, itis necessary to specify the target with which communication isperformed. Accordingly, the initiator requests an NFCID (NFCidentification) determined by, for example, random numbers asinformation specifying each target with respect to one or more targetsexisting at positions close to the initiator after starting output ofthe electromagnetic wave by the initial RFCA processing. Then, thetarget existing at the position close to the initiator transmits theNFCID specifying the device itself to the initiator in response to therequest by the initiator.

The initiator specifies the target by the NFCID transmitted from thetarget as described above, performing data exchange between theinitiator and the specified target.

In the active mode, the initiator transmits a later-described command(request) ATR_REQ with the NFCID specifying the device itself. Onetarget makes a response (performs transmission) to the ATR_REQ as alater-described response ATR_RES with respect to the command ATR_REQwith the NFCID specifying the device itself. Accordingly, the initiatorand the target recognize each other and specify each other.

On the other hand, in the passive mode, the initiator specifies targetsexisting in the vicinity of the initiator (positions closed to theinitiator) by performing processing called a SDD (Single DeviceDetection) processing.

In the SDD processing, the initiator requests the NFCID of the target,and the request is made by transmitting a frame called a polling requestframe. When the target receives the polling request frame, the targetdetermines the NFCID of the device itself by, for example, randomnumbers and transmits a frame called a polling response frame in whichthe NFCID is arranged. The initiator recognizes the NFCID of the targetby receiving the polling response frame transmitted from the target.

Since the target in the passive mode transmits data by the loadmodulation, the target does not perform the RFCA processing. Therefore,in the case that the initiator requests the NFCID with respect to thetargets in the vicinity of the initiator in the SDD processing, whenthere are plural targets in the vicinity of the initiator, the NFCIDsare sometimes transmitted from two or more of the plural targets at thesame time. In this case, the NFCIDs transmitted from two or more targetscollide, and it is difficult that the initiator recognize the NFCIDswhich have collided.

Accordingly, the SDD processing is performed by, for example, a methodusing a time slot for avoiding the collision of the NFCIDs as much aspossible. The method using the time slot is a method in which the targetwhich has received the transmitted polling command determines a timingof transmitting a replay command by random numbers generated by thedevice itself and transmits the replay command in which the NFCID isstored in accordance with the timing.

As described above, the NFC communication device can perform dataexchange with respect to the IC card or the reader/writer included inthe IC card systems of ISO/IEC 14443 and ISO/IEC 15693 in a transmissionrate applied by the IC card or the reader/writer. In the case that thetarget is, for example, the IC card in the IC card systems of ISO/IEC14443 and ISO/IEC 15693, the SDD processing is performed, for example,in the following manner.

The initiator starts output of the electromagnetic wave by the initialRFCA processing, and the IC card as the target obtains power from theelectromagnetic wave to start processing. That is, in this case, thetarget is the IC card of the existing IC card system, therefore, powerfor operation is generated by the electromagnetic wave outputted by theinitiator.

The target prepares to receive the polling request frame within, forexample, two seconds at the maximum from the timing in which the targetobtains power and becomes in an operative state, waiting for the pollingrequest frame to be transmitted from the initiator.

On the other hand, the initiator can transmit the polling request frameregardless of whether the target is ready for receiving the pollingrequest frame or not.

When the target receives the polling request frame from the initiator,the target transmits the polling response frame to the initiator in theresponse timing determined by random numbers. When the initiator cannormally receive the polling response frame from the target, theinitiator recognizes the NFCID of the target as described above. On theother hand, when the initiator fails to normally receive the pollingresponse frame from the target, the initiator can transmits the pollingrequest frame again.

[Command Set Prescribed in ISO/IEC 18092]

In the NFC communication devices, the initiator transmits a command tothe target, and the target transmits a response (makes a response) withrespect to the command from the initiator to thereby performcommunication.

Accordingly, a command set prescribed in ISO/IEC 18092 will be explainedbelow.

FIG. 7 is a command set prescribed in ISO/IEC 18092, showing requestcommands transmitted from the initiator to the target and responsecommands transmitted from the target to the initiator.

In FIG. 7, commands in which characters “REQ” are written afterunderscores (_) represent requests and commands in which characters“RES” are written after underscores (_) represent responses. In theISO/ICE 18092, six types of requests ATR_REQ, WUP_REQ, PSL_REQ, DEP_REQ,DSL_REQ and RLS_REQ are prepared. Also, six types of responses ATR_RES,WUP_RES, PSL_RES, DEP_RES, DSL_RES and RLS_RES are prepared with respectto the requests in the same manner as requests. As described above, theinitiator transmits a request to the target, and the target transmits aresponse corresponding to the request to the initiator. Therefore, therequests are transmitted by the initiator and the responses aretransmitted by the target.

Each of requests and responses is identified by 2-bytes instructionbytes including a 1-byte CMD0 field and a 1-byte CMD1 field. That is,the CMD0 field in the instruction bytes stores a value for identifyingthe request or the response. Specifically, when the command is therequest, “D4” is stored in the CMD0 field, and when the command is theresponse, “D5” is stored in the CMD0 field.

The CMD1 field in the instruction bytes stores values for identifyingrespective requests and responses. Specifically, the CMD1 fields ofATR_REQ, ATR_RES, WUP_REQ, WUP_RES, PSL_REQ, PSL_RES, DEP_REQ, DEP_RES,DSL_REQ, DSL_RES, RLS_REQ and RLS_RES store values “00”, “01”, “02”,“03”, “04”, “05”, “06”, “07”, “08”, “09”, “0A”, and “0B” respectively.

The command ATR_REQ is transmitted to the target when the initiatornotifies the target of attribute information (specification) of thedevice itself as well as requests attribute information of the target.As attribute information of the initiator or the target, there are atransmission rate of data which can be transmitted and received by theinitiator or the target and the like. In the command ATR_REQ, an NFCIDwhich specifies the initiator and the like are arranged in addition tothe attribute information of the initiator. The target receives theATR_REQ to thereby recognizing the attribute information and the NFCIDof the initiator.

The command ART_RES is transmitted to the initiator when the targetreceives the command ATR_REQ as a response with respect to the commandATR_REQ. In the command ART_RES, attribute information, the NFCID andthe like of the target are arranged.

The information of the transmission rate as attribute informationarranged in the command ATR_REQ or the command ART_RES can include alltransmission rates of data which can be transmitted and received by theinitiator and the target. In this case, the initiator can recognize thetransmission rate at which the target can perform transmission/receptionas well as the target can recognize the transmission rate at which theinitiator can perform transmission/reception by the interaction betweenthe command ATR_REQ and the command ART_RES as the response being madejust once.

The command WUP_REQ is transmitted when the initiator selects the targetwith which communication is performed. That is, it is possible to makethe target be in a deselected state (state in which data transmission(response) to the initiator is prohibited) by transmitting the commandDSL_REQ from the initiator to the target as described later. The commandWUP_REQ is transmitted when the deselected state is released to enablethe target to transmit data to the initiator. In the command WUP_REQ,the NFCID of the target the deselected state of which is released isarranged. The target specified by the NFCID arranged in the commandWUP_REQ in targets which have received the command WUP_REQ releases thedeselected state.

The command WUP_RES is transmitted as a response with respect to thecommand WUP_REQ when the target specified by the NFCID arranged in thecommand WUP_REQ in targets which have received the command WUP_REQreleases the deselected state.

The command WUP_REQ is transmitted only when the initiator is in theactive mode, and the command WUP_RES is transmitted only when the targetis in the active mode.

The command PSL_REQ is transmitted when the initiator changes (sets)communication parameters concerning communication with the target. Here,as communication parameters, for example, the transmission rate of dataexchanged between the initiator and the target can be cited.

The command PSL_REQ is transmitted from the initiator to the target. Inthe command PSL_REQ, a value of the changed communication parameter isarranged. The target receives the command PSL_REQ and changes thecommunication parameter in accordance with the value of thecommunication parameter arranged therein. The target further transmitsthe command PSL_RES as a response with respect to the command PSL_REQ.

The command DEP_REQ is transmitted when the initiator transmits andreceives (data exchange between the initiator and the target) data(so-called real data), and data to be transmitted to the target isarranged therein. The command DEP_RES is transmitted as a response withrespect to the command DEP_REQ by the target, and data to be transmittedto the initiator is arranged therein. Therefore, data is transmittedfrom the initiator to the target by the command DEP_REQ, and the data istransmitted from the target to the initiator by the command DEP_RESwhich is the response with respect to the command DEP_REQ.

The command DSL_REQ is transmitted when the initiator makes the targetbe in the deselected state. The target which has received the commandDSL_REQ transmits the command DSL_RES as a response with respect to thecommand DSL_REQ and becomes in the deselected state, after that, thetarget does not respond (does not make a response) to commands otherthan the command WUP_REQ.

The command RLS_REQ is transmitted when the initiator fully completescommunication with the target. The target which has received the commandRLS_REQ transmits the command RLS_RES as a response with respect to thecommand RLS_REQ and fully completes the communication with theinitiator.

Here, the commands DLS_REQ and RLS_REQ are common in a point that thetarget is released from the communication target with respect to theinitiator. However, the target released by the command DLS_REQ becomesin the communicable state with the initiator again by the commandWUP_REQ, however, the target released by the command RLS_REQ does notbecome in the communicable state with the initiator unless the initiatorbegins the process from the initial RFCA processing again. In thispoint, the command DSL_REQ is different from the command RLS_REQ.

In the following explanation, in order to easily distinguish between thecommand from the initiator and the command returned from the target as aresponse, for example, the command ATR_RES which is the response withrespect to the command ATR_REQ is called a response ATR_RES. The samegoes for other commands transmitted by the target.

The NFC communication devices (respective NFC communication devices 1 to3) can perform communication complying with NFCIP-1 as ISO/IEC 18092 aswell as can perform communication in a power saving mode as an extendedfunction as describe later.

First, communication processing complying with the NFCIP-1 which isbasic processing will be explained with reference to FIG. 8 to FIG. 10.

[Communication Processing Complying with ISO/IEC 18092]

FIG. 8 is a flowchart explaining an outline of communication processingcomplying with NFCIP-1.

First, in Step S1, the NFC communication device to be the initiatorperforms the initial RFCA processing. In Step S2, the NFC communicationdevice to be the initiator determines whether the RF field has beendetected or not by the initial RFCA processing of Step S1. When it isdetermined that the RF field has been detected in Step S2, the processreturns to Step S1, and the same processing is repeated after that. Thatis, the NFC communication device to be the initiator does not form theRF field during detection of the RF field so as not to interrupt thecommunication by another NFC communication device which forms the RFfield.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the RF field has not beendetected in Step S2, the NFC communication device selects any ofcommunication modes of the active mode and the passive mode, becomes theinitiator, and then performs selection of the transmission rate and thelike.

That is, in the NFCIP-1, it is possible to select the transmission rateused for the actual communication from plural transmission rates such as106 kbps, 212 kbps and 424 kbps. In Step S3, the NFC communicationdevice which has become the initiator performs selection of thetransmission rate.

Specifically, when communication is performed in the passive mode, theprocessing proceeds from Step S2 to Step S3-1 of Step S3 including StepS3-1 and Step S3-2. Then, the NFC communication device becomes theinitiator, changes the communication mode to the passive mode andselects the transmission rate. Moreover, the NFC communication devicewhich has become the initiator performs the given initial processing andthe SDD processing in Step S3-1. After that, the processing proceeds toStep S4-1 of Step S4 including Step S4-1 and Step S4-2.

In Step S4-1, the NFC communication device is activated (started) in thepassive mode, exchanging the command ATR_REQ and the response ATR_RESwith the target in the passive mode.

On the other hand, when communication is performed in the active mode,the process proceeds from Step S2 to Step S3-2 of Step S3 including StepS3-1 and Step S3-2. Then, the NFC communication device becomes theinitiator, changes the communication mode to the active mode and selectsthe transmission rate. After that, the processing proceeds to Step S4-2of Step S4 which includes Step S4-1 and Step S4-2.

In Step S4-2, the NFC communication device is activated in the activemode, exchanging the command ATR_REQ and the response ATR_RES with thetarget.

After Step S4-1 or Step S4-2, the NFC communication device selects thecommunication parameter when it is necessary to change the communicationparameter necessary for the communication (for example, the transmissionrate and the like) from the present communication parameter in Step S5.Then, the NFC communication device exchanges the command PSL_REQ and theresponse PSL_RES in which the selected communication parameter and thelike are arranged with the target to change the communication parameter.

In Step S6, the NFC communication device exchanges the command DEP_REQand the response DEP_RES with the target in accordance with thecommunication parameter selected in Step S5, performing data exchange(communication) by a data exchange protocol.

In Step S7, the NFC communication device exchanges the command DSL_REQand the response DSL_RES, or the command RSL_REQ and the responseRSL_RES with the target, and the device is deactivated to end thetransaction.

The NFC communication device can be set to be the target, for example,by default. The NFC communication device set to be the target by defaultdoes not form the RF field and is in a stand-by state until the commandis transmitted from the initiator (until the initiator forms the RFfield).

The NFC communication device can be the initiator, for example, inaccordance with the request from applications. Moreover, inapplications, for example, it is possible to select (determine) thecommunication mode of the active mode or the passive mode as well as thetransmission rate.

The NFC communication device which has become the initiator forms the RFfield when the RF field is not formed in the outside and the target isactivated by the RF field formed by the initiator.

After that, the initiator transmits the command in the selectedcommunication mode and the transmission rate, and the target returns(transmits) the response command in the same communication mode and thesame transmission rate as the initiator.

[Detailed Communication Processing in the Passive Mode]

Next, processing performed in the NFC communication devices when dataexchange is performed in the passive mode will be explained withreference to a flowchart of FIG. 9.

First, the initiator performs the initial RFCA processing in Step S11,then, proceeds to Step S12 and sets the communication mode to thepassive mode. In Step S13, the initiator performs the initial processingand the SDD processing as well as selects the transmission rate.

The processing of Step S11 corresponds to the processing of Step S1 andStep S2 in FIG. 8 and the processing of Step S12 and Step S13corresponds to the processing of Step S3 (S3-1) in FIG. 8.

After that, the process proceeds to Step S14, where the initiatordetermines whether the initiator requests attribute information to thetarget or not. Here, attribute information is information whichprescribes communication ability of the NFC communication device, andfor example, information of the transmission rate which can be appliedby the NFC communication device and the like can be cited.

In Step S14, when it is determined that attribute information is notrequested to that target in Step S14, the initiator performscommunication with the target in accordance with a unique protocol inStep S15. After Step S15, the processing returns to Step S14 and thesame processing is repeated after that.

On the other hand, when it is determined that attribute information isrequested to the target, the process proceeds to Step S16 and theinitiator transmits the command ATR_REQ to thereby request attributeinformation to the target. Then, the initiator waits for the responseATR_RES with respect to the command ATR_REQ being transmitted from thetarget, receiving the response ATR_RES in Step S17.

The processing of Step S16 and S17 corresponds to the processing of StepS4 (Step S4-1) in FIG. 8.

In Step S18, the initiator determines whether the communicationparameter, for example, the transmission rate can be changed or notbased on the response ATR_RES received from the target in Step S17. Whenit is determined that it is difficult to change the transmission rate inStep S18, the process skips Step S19 to Step S21 and proceeds to StepS22.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the transmission rate canbe changed in Step S18, the process proceeds to Step S19, where theinitiator transmits the command PSL_REQ to thereby request change of thetransmission rate to the target. Then, the initiator waits for theresponse PSL_RES with respect to the command PSL_REQ being transmittedfrom the target, receiving the response PSL_RES in Step S20. In StepS21, the initiator changes the communication parameter, for example, thetransmission rate in accordance with the response PSL_RES received inStep S20.

The processing of Step S18 to S21 corresponds to the processing of StepS5 in FIG. 8.

In Step S22, the initiator performs data exchange with the target inaccordance with a data exchange protocol. That is, exchange of thecommand DEP_REQ and the response DEP_RES is performed. The processing ofStep S22 corresponds to the processing of Step S6 in FIG. 8.

After the data exchange is performed in Step S22, the initiator proceedsto Step S23 or Step S25 according to need.

That is, when the initiator allows the target to be in the deselectedstate, the processing proceeds from Step S22 to S23, where the initiatortransmits the command DSL_REQ. Then, the initiator waits for theresponse DSL_RES with respect to the command DSL_REQ being transmittedfrom the target, receiving the response DSL_RES in Step S24. After StepS24, the processing returns to Step S14 and the same processing isrepeated after that.

On the other hand, when the initiator fully completes communication withthe target, the processing proceeds from Step S22 to Step S25 and theinitiator transmits the command RLS_REQ. Then, the initiator waits forthe response RLS_RES with respect to the command RLS_REQ beingtransmitted from the target, receiving the response RLS_RES in Step S26.In Step S26, the processing returns to Step S11 and the same processingis repeated after that.

The processing of Step S23 and S24, or the processing step S25 and S26corresponds to the processing of Step S7 in FIG. 8.

[Detailed Description in the Active Mode]

Next, processing performed in the NFC communication device when dataexchange is performed in the active mode will be explained withreference to a flowchart of FIG. 10.

First, in Step S31, the initiator performs the initial RFCA processingand proceeds to Step S32, where the initiator sets the communicationmode to the active mode and selects the transmission rate.

The processing of Step S31 corresponds to the processing of Step S1 andS2 in FIG. 8, and the processing of Step S32 corresponds to theprocessing of Step S3 (S3-2).

After that, in Step S33 to S39, the same processing as Step S16 to S22in FIG. 9 is performed respectively.

That is, in Step S33, the initiator transmits the command ATR_REQ,thereby requesting attribute information to the target. Then, theinitiator waits for the response ATR_RES with respect to the commandATR_REQ being transmitted from the target, receiving the responseATR_RES in Step S34.

In Step S35, the initiator determines whether the initiator can changethe communication parameter, for example, the transmission rate or notbased on the response ATR_RES received from the target in Step S34. Whenit is determined that it is difficult to change the communicationparameter in Step S35, the process skips Step S36 to Step S38 andproceeds to Step S39.

On the other hand, in Step S35, when it is determined that thecommunication parameter can be changed, the process proceeds to StepS36, where the initiator transmits the command PSL_REQ to therebyrequesting change (setting) of the communication parameter to thetarget. Then, the initiator waits for the response PSL_RES with respectto the command PSL_REQ being transmitted from the target, receiving theresponse PSL_RES in Step S37. In Step S38, the initiator changes thecommunication parameter, for example, the transmission rate inaccordance with the response PSL_RES received in Step S37.

In Step S39, the initiator performs data exchange with the target inaccordance with a data exchange protocol. That is, exchange of thecommand DEP_REQ and the response DEP_RES is performed.

The processing of Step S33 and S34 corresponds to the processing of S4(S4-2) in FIG. 8, and the processing of Step S35 to S38 corresponds tothe processing S5 of FIG. 8. The processing of Step S39 corresponds tothe processing of Step S6 in FIG. 8.

After the data exchange is performed in Step S39, the process proceedsto Step S40 or S44 according to need.

That is, when the initiator is allows the target with whichcommunication is performed now to be in the deselected state and allowsany of targets which have already been in the deselected state to bewoken up, the process proceeds from Step S39 to Step S40. In Step S40,the initiator transmits the command DSL_REQ to the target which will bein the deselected state. Then, the initiator waits for the responseDSL_RES with respect to the command DSL_REQ being transmitted from thetarget, receiving the response DSL_RES in Step S41. The target which hastransmitted the response DSL_RES becomes in the deselected state.

After that, the process proceeds from Step S41 to S42, and the initiatortransmits the command WUP_REQ to the target to be woken up. Then, theinitiator waits for the response WUP_RES with respect to the commandWUP_REQ being transmitted from the target, receiving the responseWUP_RES in Step S43. The target which has transmitted the responseWUP_RES wakes up and this woken-up target will be a target of processingafter Step S35 performed by the initiator after that.

On the other hand, when the initiator fully completes the communicationwith the target, the process proceeds from Step S39 to S44. In Step S44,the initiator transmits the command RLS_REQ. Then, the initiator waitsfor the response RLS_RES with respect to the command RLS_REQ beingtransmitted from the target, receiving the response RLS_RES in Step S45.After Step S45, the processing returns to Step S31 and the sameprocessing is repeated after that.

The processing of Step S40 to S43, or the processing of Step S44 andStep S45 corresponds to the processing of Step S7 in FIG. 8.

The communication processing complying with the NFCIP-1 has beenexplained with reference to FIG. 8 to FIG. 10 as above.

[Explanation of Communication Functions in the Power Saving Mode]

Next, communication in the power saving mode which can be performed bythe NFC communication devices of the communication system in FIG. 1 asan extended function will be explained with reference to FIG. 11 andFIG. 12. The following explanation will be made on the assumption thatthe NFC communication devices perform communication in the passive mode.The communication in the active mode will be explained collaterallyabout a different point in explanation of communication in the passivemode.

The NFC communication device has a low RF output communication functionshown in FIG. 11 and an intermittent RF output communication functionshown in FIG. 12 as communication functions in the power saving mode.

The low RF output communication function is a function of performingcommunication in a state in which power of the electromagnetic wave(magnetic field strength: unit A/m) outputted by the initiator is madeto be lower than a value prescribed by NFCIP-1 as shown in FIG. 11.

As explained with reference to FIG. 5, it is prescribed that theinitiator outputs the electromagnetic wave in the power from 1.5 A/m to7.5 A/m in NFCIP-1.

On the other hand, the NFC communication device having the low RF outputcommunication function can perform communication when the power of theelectromagnetic wave is at least 0.3 A/m. That is, the initiator canoutput the electromagnetic wave in the power from 0.3 A/m to 7.5 A/m inthe low RF output communication function.

Accordingly, the communication can be performed in a state in which thepower of the electromagnetic wave is made to be lower than the valueproscribed by NFCIP-1, therefore, it is possible to reduce powerconsumption of the initiator which continues outputting theelectromagnetic wave.

Next, the intermittent RF output function will be explained.

The intermittent RF output function is a function of performingcommunication in a state in which a fixed period during which output ofthe electromagnetic wave is stopped is provided after the initiatoroutputs the electromagnetic wave for a fixed period and repeating ON andOFF of output of the electromagnetic wave. That is, the initiatoroutputs the electromagnetic wave in given power for a fixed period fromthe output start of the electromagnetic wave after the timeT_(IDT)+n×T_(RFW) has passed (an RF output ON period shown by “ON timeperiod” in FIG. 12). The RF output ON period is a time period set byadding a given margin of time to a period of time in which transmission(Send Request) of data (including commands) is completed. After that,the initiator stops output of the electromagnetic wave for a fixedperiod (an RF output OFF period shown by “OFF time period) in FIG. 12.After that, the initiator repeats ON and OFF of output of theelectromagnetic wave in the RF output ON period and the RF output OFFperiod.

As compared with the communication complying with NFCIP-1, it ispossible to reduce power consumption of the initiator because there is aperiod in which output of the electromagnetic wave can be stopped asapparent with reference to FIG. 12.

It is preferable that the NFC communication device has any one of thelow RF output communication function and the intermittent RF outputcommunication function, or it is also preferable that the NFCcommunication device has both of the low RF output communicationfunction and the intermittent RF output communication function. Whenboth of the low RF output communication function and the intermittent RFoutput communication function are executed, for example, the NFCcommunication device which intends to become the initiator outputs theelectromagnetic wave in power of 0.3 A/m after the timeT_(IDT)+n×T_(RFW) has passed. Then, the NFC communication device whichintends to become the initiator stops output of the electromagnetic wavein the RF output OFF period after the RF output ON period has passedfrom the output start of the electromagnetic wave. After that, the NFCcommunication device which intends to become the initiator startsoutputs of the electromagnetic wave in power of 0.3 A/m.

Next, commands or parameters included in the NFC communication devicefor performing communication processing in the above power saving modein addition to the commands or parameters prescribed by NFCIP-1 will beexplained.

[Explanation of Extended Command Set]

FIG. 13 shows a command set included in addition to the command setshown in FIG. 7 by the NFC communication device.

That is, the NFC communication device having the power saving mode canexchange a command PSL2_REQ and a response command PSL2_REScorresponding to the command PSL2_REQ in addition to the command setshown in FIG. 7.

The command PSL2_REQ stores “D4” in the CMD0 field and stores “0C” inthe CMD1 field to thereby be identified. The response PSL2_RES stores“D5” in the CMD0 field and stores “0D” in the CMD1 field to thereby beidentified.

The command PSL2_REQ is transmitted from the initiator to the targetwhen the initiator changes (sets) extended communication parametersconcerning communication with the target (extended communicationparameters). In the command PSL2_REQ, a value of the changed extendedcommunication parameter is arranged. The target receives the commandPSL2_REQ and changes the communication parameter in accordance with thevalue of the extended communication parameter arranged therein.Moreover, the target transmits the command PSL2_RES as a response withrespect to the command PSL2_REQ.

Next, the detailed contents of respective commands for performingcommunication processing in the power saving mode will be explained.

[Explanation of the Command ATR_REQ]

FIG. 14 shows a structure of the command ART_REQ.

The command ATR_REQ includes the CMD0 field, the CMD1 field and Byte0 toByte n+14 fields (“n” is an integer value of “0” or larger) from thehead (from the left in the drawing).

In the CMD0 field and the CMD1 field, values “D4” and “00” indicatingthat the command is the command ATR_REQ are stored as described above.

In the Byte0 to Byte9 fields, an NFCID specifying the NFC communicationdevice which transmits the command ATR_REQ, namely, specifying theinitiator is stored.

In the Byte10 field, DIDi which is a device ID of the initiator whichtransmits the command ATR_REQ is set. Accordingly, the Byte10 field isreferred to as a DIDi field in the following description.

In the Byte11 field, a bit rate (transmission rate) BSi used when theinitiator which transmits the command ATR_REQ transmits data is set.

In the Byte12 field, a bit rate (transmission rate) BRi used when theinitiator which transmits the command ATR_REQ receives data is set.

In the Byte13 field, an option parameter PPi concerning the initiatorwhich transmits the command ATR_REQ is set. The Byte13 field is alsoreferred to as a PPi field in the following description. The details ofthe PPi field will be described later with reference to FIG. 15.

Respective fields of Byte14 to Byte 14+n are fields in which variousinformation designated by an architect and the like is set, which areprepared for options. The value “n” can be changed by the architect andthe like, which is an integer value of “0” or larger. The value “n” isset in the PPi field as described later. In the following description,respective n-pieces Gi fields are referred to as Gi[0] to Gi[n] fieldsin the order of arrangement (in the order from the left in FIG. 14).

[Details of the PPi Field]

FIG. 15 shows a structure of the PPi field.

The PPi field includes a bit “0” to a bit “7” as shown in FIG. 15.

The PPi field is the same as NFCIP-1 except a point that the bit 7 cantake a value “1” in addition to “0”. In other words, when the bit 7 is“0”, the PPi field is the PPi field itself prescribed by NFCIP-1.

In NFCIP-1, it is prescribed that the bit 7 takes “0”, however, thecommunication system of FIG. 1 is extended so that the bit7 can be “1”.When the bit7 is “1”, it is indicated that the initiator has thecommunication function in the power waving mode.

“0” is set in the bit 6, the bit 3 and the bit 2.

In the bit 4 and bit 5, information LRi for designating the valid lengthof data, namely, the value “n” is set, which is described above withreference to FIG. 14 is set.

In the bit 1, information Gi indicating whether the Gi[0] to Gi[n]fields are arranged or not (exist or not) is set. Since the informationGi will be “0” or “1”, for example, “0” indicates that the field is notarranged (not exist) and “1” indicates that the field is arranged(exists).

In the bit “0”, information indicating whether NAD (Node Address) isused or not (“0” or 1) is set. NAD represents a sub-address of a deviceID in the initiator which transmits the command ATR_REQ set in the aboveByte10 field of FIG. 14, namely, the DIDi field. It is prescribed inNFCIP-1 that one device ID can have 16 sub-addresses.

In the bit “0”, for example, when “0” indicates that NAD is not used and“1” indicates that NAD is used, the fact that “0” is set in the bit “0”means that the initiator which transmits the command ATR_REQ does notuse the sub-address. On the other hand, the fact that “1” is set in thebit “0” means that the initiator which transmits the command ATR_REQuses the sub-address.

As described above, the value included in the PPi field of the commandATR_REQ is extended, and the presence of the communication function inthe power saving mode can be transmitted from the initiator to thetarget.

[Explanation of the Command ATR_RES]

FIG. 16 shows a structure of the command ART_RES.

As shown in FIG. 16, the command ART_RES includes the CMD0 field, theCMD1 field and Byte0 to Byte n+15 fields (“n” is an integer value of “0”or larger) from the head (from the left in the drawing).

In the CMD0 field and the CMD1 field, values “D5” and “01” indicatingthat the command is the command ATR_RES are stored as described above.

In the Byte0 to Byte12 fields, the same data as Byte0 to Byte12 fieldsof the command ATR_REQ is set.

That is, in the Byte0 to Byte9 fields, an NFCID specifying the NFCcommunication device which transmits the command ATR_RES, namely,specifying the target is stored.

In the Byte10 field, DIDt which is a device ID of the target whichtransmits the command ART_RES is set. Accordingly, the Byte10 field isreferred to as a DIDt field in the following description.

In the Byte11 field, a bit rate (transmission rate) BSt used when thetarget which transmits the command ATR_RES transmits data is set.

In the Byte12 field, a bit rate (transmission rate) BRt used when thetarget which transmits the command ATR_RES receives data is set.

In the Byte13 field, a timeout value “TO” of the target is set.

The Byte14 field is the same as Byte13 field of the command ATR_REQ.That is, an option parameter PPt concerning the target which transmitsthe command ATR_RES is set in Byte14 field. The Byte14 field of thecommand ATR_RES is also referred to as a PPt field in the followingdescription. The details of the PPt field will be described later withreference to FIG. 17.

Byte15 to Byte 15+n fields are respectively the same as Byte 14 to Byte14+n fields of the command ATR_REQ. That is, Byte15 to Byte 15+n fieldsare fields in which various information designated by an architect andthe like is set, which are prepared for options. The value “n” can bechanged by the architect and the like, which is an integer value of “0”or larger. The value “n” is set in the PPt field as described later. Inthe following description, respective n-pieces Gt fields are referred toas Gi[0] to Gt[n] fields in the order of arrangement (in the order fromthe left in FIG. 16).

[Details of the PPt Field]

FIG. 17 shows a structure of the PPt field.

As shown in FIG. 17, the PPt field is configured as the PPi field of thecommand ATR_REQ.

That is, the PPt field is the same as NFCIP-1 except a point in whichthe bit7 can take a value “1” in addition to “0”. In other words, whenthe bit7 is “0”, the PPt field is the PPt field itself prescribed byNFCIP-1.

It is prescribed that the bit7 is set to “0” in NFCIP-1, however, thecommunication system of FIG. 1 is extended so that the bit7 can be “1”.When the bit7 is “1”, it is indicated that the target has thecommunication function in the power waving mode.

“0” is set in the bit 6, the bit 3 and the bit 2.

In the bit 4 and bit 5, information LRt for designating the valid lengthof data which is the value “n” described above with reference to FIG. 16is set.

In the bit 1, information Gt indicating whether the Gt[0] to Gt[n]fields are arranged or not (exist or not) is set. Since the informationGt will be “0” or “1”, for example, “0” indicates that the field is notarranged (not exist) and “1” indicates that the field is arranged(exists).

In the bit “0”, information indicating whether NAD (Node Address) isused or not (“0” or 1) is set. NAD represents a sub-address of a deviceID in the target which transmits the command ATR_RES set in the aboveByte10 field of FIG. 16, namely, the DIDi field. It is prescribed inNFCIP-1 that one device ID can have 16 sub-addresses.

In the bit “0”, for example, when “0” indicates that NAD is not used and“1” indicates that NAD is used, the fact that “0” is set in the bit “0”means that the target which transmits the command ATR_RES does not usethe sub-address. On the other hand, the fact that “1” is set in the bit“0” means that the target which transmits the command ATR_RES uses thesub-address.

As described above, the value included in the PPt field in the responseART_RES is extended, and the presence of the communication function inthe power saving mode can be transmitted from the target to theinitiator.

Next, the command PSL2_REQ and the response PSL2_RES corresponding tothe command PSL2_REQ shown in FIG. 13 will be explained.

[Explanation of the Command PSL2_REQ]

FIG. 18 shows a structure of the command PSL2_REQ.

The command PSL2_REQ includes the CMD0 field, the CMD1 field and Byte0to Byte 7 fields from the head (from the left in the drawing).

In the CMD0 field and the CMD1 field, values “D4” and “0C” indicatingthat the command is the command PSL2_REQ are stored as described above.

In the Byte0 field, FLAGs indicating valid or invalid of the Byte1 fieldand Byte4 to Byte7 fields are stored as described later with referenceto FIG. 19. The Byte0 field is also referred to as a FLAG field in thefollowing description.

In the Byte1 field, the magnetic field strength (power) of theelectromagnetic wave generated by the initiator is set. In NFCIP-1, itis prescribed that the initiator outputs the electromagnetic wave in arange from 1.5 to 7.5 A/m, in which 1.5 A/m is the lower limit value(Hmin) and 7.5 A/m is the upper limit value (Hmax). When “00” is set inthe Byte1 field, it is indicated that the initiator outputs theelectromagnetic wave in the range from 1.5 to 7.5 A/m prescribed byNFCIP-1. On the other hand, when “01” is set in the Byte1 field, it isindicated that the initiator outputs the electromagnetic wave in a rangefrom 0.3 to 7.5 A/m, in which 0.3 A/m is the lower limit value.

In other words, when “00” is set in the Byte1 field, it is indicatedthat the initiator performs communication within the range of theNFCIP-1 standard shown with reference to FIG. 5. On the other hand, when“01” is set in the Byte1 field, it is indicated that the initiator canperform communication using the low RF output communication functionexplained with reference to FIG. 11.

In the present embodiment, since the communication is performed in thepassive mode, only the initiator outputs the electromagnetic wave of theset magnetic field strength, however, when the communication in theactive mode is selected, the electromagnetic wave within the range ofmagnetic field strength set in the Byte1 field is outputted from theinitiator and the target, respectively.

The Byte2 and Byte3 fields are reserved for future use (RFU: ReservedFor Future Use), in which, for example, “0” is set.

In two bytes of Byte4 and Byte 5 fields, the RF output ON period (Ontime period) in the intermittent RF output communication functionexplained with reference to FIG. 12 is set by an integer binary valuewithout a sign. A unit of values set in the Byte4 and Byte5 fields is,for example, millisecond (msec).

In two bytes of Byte6 and Byte 7 fields, the RF output OFF period (OFFtime period) in the intermittent RF output communication functionexplained with reference to FIG. 12 is set by an integer binary valuewithout a sign. A unit of values set in the Byte6 and Byte7 fields is,for example, millisecond (msec).

[Details of the FLAG Field]

FIG. 19 shows a structure of a FLAG field.

The FLAG field includes a bit “0” to a bit “7” as shown in FIG. 19.

In the bit 7, a flag indicating valid or invalid of magnetic fieldstrength of the electromagnetic wave set in the Byte1 field in thecommand PSL2_REQ is stored. For example, when the bit 7 is “0”, it isindicated that the magnetic field strength of the electromagnetic waveset in the Byte1 field is invalid, and when the bit 7 is “1”, it isindicated that magnetic field strength of the electromagnetic wave setin the Byte1 field is valid.

In the bit 6, a flag indicating valid or invalid of the RF output ONperiod set in the Byte4 and Byte5 fields in the command PSL2_REQ isstored. For example, when the bit 6 is “0”, it is indicated that the RFoutput ON period is invalid and when the bit 6 is “1”, it is indicatedthat the RF output ON period is valid.

In the bit 5, a flag indicating valid or invalid of the RF output OFFperiod set in the Byte6 and Byte7 fields in the command PSL2_REQ isstored. For example, when the bit 5 is “0”, it is indicated that the RFoutput OFF period is invalid and when the bit 5 is “1”, it is indicatedthat the RF output OFF period is valid.

In the bit 4, a flag indicating the presence of transition to thepassive mode is stored. For example, when the bit 4 is “0”, it isindicated that the transition to the passive mode does not exist, andwhen the bit 4 is “1”, it is indicated that the transition to thepassive mode exists. The details will be described later with referenceto FIG. 22 and FIG. 23. In the communication in the power saving mode,when the communication is performed in the passive mode, thecommunication is performed along the flow of the active mode prescribedby NFCIP-1 at first, then, the communication mode is changed to thepassive mode. Accordingly, the flag “1” in the bit 4 means that thecommunication is performed in the passive mode and the flag “0” in thebit 4 means that the communication is performed in the active mode.

[Explanation of the Command PSL2_RES]

FIG. 20 shows a structure of the command PSL2_RES.

In the CMD0 field and the CMD1 field, values “D5” and “0D” indicatingthat the command is the command PSL2_RES are stored as described above.

In Byte0 field, a message MSG indicating a reply from the target withrespect to the command PSL2_REQ is stored as described later withreference to FIG. 21. The Byte0 field is also referred to as a MSG fieldin the following description.

Byte1 to Byte7 fields are reserved for future use (RFU: Reserved ForFuture Use). In Byte1 to Byte7 fields, for example, “0” is set.

[Details of the MSG Field]

FIG. 21 shows a structure of the MSG field.

The MSG field includes a bit “0” to a bit 7 as shown in FIG. 21.

In the bit 7, a response message (flag) indicating propriety of thesupport to the power saving mode using the RF output communicationfunction is stored. For example, when the bit 7 is “0”, it is indicatedthat the device is set in a state of operating in the power within 0.3to 7.5 A/m. When the bit 7 is “1”, the device does not have ability ofoperating in the power within 0.3 to 7.5 A/m. The bit 7 in the MSG fieldis also referred to as a low RF output OK bit in the followingdescription.

In the bit 6, a response message (flag) indicating propriety of thesupport to the power saving mode using the intermittent outputcommunication function is stored. For example, when the bit 6 is “0”, itis indicated that the device is set in a state of operating in responseto ON/OFF of the electromagnetic wave in the RF output ON period and theRF output OFF period set in Byte4 to Byte7 fields of the commandPLS2_REQ. On the other hand, when the bit 6 is “1”, the device does nothave ability of operating in response to ON/OFF of the electromagneticwave. The bit 6 in the MSG field is also referred to as an intermittentoutput OK bit.

In the active mode, when the target sends a reply by setting the low RFoutput bit to “0”, the target also transmits a command by outputting theelectromagnetic wave in the low RF output. Similarly, when the targetsends a reply by setting the intermittent output OK bit to “0”, thetarget also transmits the command by outputting the electromagnetic wavein the RF output ON period and the RF output OFF period as received fromthe initiator.

In the bit 5, a response message indicating an operation state oftransition to the passive mode is stored. For example, when the bit 5 is“1”, it is indicated that the setting of the parameter designated by thecommand PSL2_REQ has been completed and the transition to the passivemode has been completed (stand-by in the passive mode). On the otherhand, when the bit 5 is “0”, it is indicated that the transition to thepassive mode is not performed. Hereinafter, the bit 5 in the MSG fieldis also referred to as a passive OK mode.

The bit 4 to the bit “0” are reserved for future use.

The command PSL2_REQ and the response PSL2_RES corresponding to thecommand PSL2_REQ having the above parameters are exchanged between theinitiator and the target for checking the propriety of execution of thepower saving mode.

[Communication Processing in which Power Saving Mode is Possible]

Accordingly, next, communication processing in the case that thecommunication is performed in the power saving mode will be explainedwith reference to FIG. 22 and FIG. 23.

First, the initiator starts communication processing by the sameprocessing as in the case of the active mode regardless whether thefinal communication mode is the active mode or the passive mode.

Accordingly, the processing of Step S101 to S105 in FIG. 22 is the sameas the processing of Step S31 to S35 in FIG. 10. However, thetransmission of the command ATR_REQ and the response ATR_RES in StepS103 and S104 in FIG. 22 are different in a point that the value “1” canbe taken in addition to “0” in the bit 7 of the PPi field as well as thePPt field.

In Step S105, when it is determined that the communication parameter canbe changed based on the response ATR_RES, the process proceeds to StepS106, and the initiator determines whether the target has thecommunication function in the power saving mode or not.

In Step S106, when it is determined that the target does not have thecommunication function in the power saving mode, that is, when the bit 7in the PPt field of the response ATR_RES IS “0”, the processing proceedsto Step S107. The processing of Step S107 to S109 is the same as theprocessing from Step S36 to S38 of FIG. 10.

After the processing of Step S107 to S109 is executed, the processingproceeds to Step S114. As a result, when the processing from Step S107to S109 has been executed, the initiator and the target performcommunication (data exchange) in the active mode complying with NFCIP-1in the same manner as the processing explained with reference to FIG.10.

On the other hand, in Step S106, when it is determined that the targethas the communication function in the power saving mode, that is, whenthe bit 7 in the PPt field of the response ATR_RES is “1”, theprocessing proceeds to Step S110.

In Step S110, the initiator transmits the commands PSL_REQ and PSL2_RES,thereby requesting change of the communication parameter and theextended communication parameter to the target. Then, the responsePSL_RES corresponding to the command PSL_REQ and the response PSL2_REScorresponding to the command PSL2_REQ are transmitted from the target.The initiator receives the responses PSL_RES and PSL2_RES in Step S111.After that, in Step S112, the initiator changes the communicationparameter and the extended communication parameter in accordance withthe responses PSL_RES and PSL2_RES received in Step S111.

In Step S113, the initiator determines whether the target has completesthe transition to the passive mode or not. That is, the initiatordetermines whether the passive OK bit of the response PSL2_RES returnedby the target is “1” or not in Step S113. When it is determined that thetarget has not completed the transition to the passive mode, that is,when the passive OK bit is “0”, the process proceeds to Step S114.

In Step S114, the initiator and the target perform communication (dataexchange) in the active mode which is the same as the processingexplained with reference to FIG. 10. However, the initiator and thetarget have agreed with each other in the power saving mode by thecommands PSL2_REQ and PSL2_RES, therefore, they performs communicationin the active mode of the power saving mode in the processing after StepS114.

That is, when the low RF output OK bit in the MSG field received by theinitiator from the target is “0”, the communication in the low RF outputis performed. When the intermittent output OK bit in the MSG fieldreceived by the initiator from the target is “0”, the communication bythe intermittent RF output is performed. Moreover, when the low RFoutput OK bit and the intermittent output OK bit in the MSG field are“0”, the communication of the low RF output as well as the intermittentRF output is performed.

Since the processing of Step S115 to S120 in FIG. 22 is the same as inthe case of Step S40 to S45 in FIG. 10 respectively, the explanationthereof is omitted.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the target have completedthe transition to the passive mode in Step S113, that is, when thepassive OK bit is “1”, the processing proceeds to Step S121 in FIG. 23.

The processing after Step S121 is basically the same as the case in thepassive mode explained with reference to FIG. 9. That is, the processingof Step S121 to S134 in FIG. 23 is the same as the processing of StepS13 to S26 respectively. However, the initiator and the target performthe processing of Step S121 and subsequent steps in the low RF outputmode or the intermittent RF output mode, or in the both mode, in whichthey have agreed by the transmission/reception of the commands PSL2_REQand PSL2_RES.

As described above, the NFC communication device can perform operationsin the power saving mode of the low RF output (low RF output mode) orthe power saving mode of the intermittent RF output (intermittent RFoutput mode).

In the low RF output mode, only the power of the electromagnetic wave tobe outputted is different in the passive mode as well as the activemode. Therefore, the initiator and the target can perform communicationin the same manner as in the case of NFCIP-1.

In the intermittent RF output mode, only the initiator outputs (themagnetic wave of) the carrier wave and the target performs loadmodulation of the carrier wave outputted by the initiator to transmitdata in the passive mode. Therefore, the target in the intermittent RFoutput mode may perform load modulation (transmit data) at a timing whenthe initiator outputs the carrier wave, therefore, the communication canbe normally performed also in the intermittent RF output mode. Since thetarget can recognize in which period the initiator stops output of thecarrier wave by exchanging the commands PSL2_REQ and PLS2 RES, forexample, the target can stop the processing of detecting theelectromagnetic wave in that period.

On the other hand, in the active mode, both of the initiator and thetarget output carrier waves for themselves to transmit data, and stopsoutput of the carrier waves after the data transmission. Therefore,there exists a state in which both of the initiator and the target stopthe output of carrier waves during the communication in the active modeas explained with reference to FIG. 6. Accordingly, the communication inthe active mode is likely to be interrupted by another NFC communicationdevice which intends to become the initiator starting output of thecarrier wave by the initial RFCA, however, the following action will bemade to this matter.

As described above, it is prescribed that another NFC communicationdevice which intends to become the initiator checks that theelectromagnetic wave is not outputted at least for the initial delaytime T_(IDT) as the initial RFCA processing. Conversely, another NFCcommunication device to be the initiator does not output theelectromagnetic wave in the case that the time period for which theelectromagnetic wave is not outputted is within the initial delay timeT_(IDT). Therefore, in the active mode of the intermittent output OFFmode, it is possible to surely avoid the interruption of communicationin the active mode when the RF output OFF period is within the initialdelay time T_(IDT), namely, within 4094/fc.

However, when the RF output OFF period is limited to within the initialdelay time T_(IDT), the reduction of the power consumption is alsolimited.

Accordingly, the case in which the RF output period is allowed to belonger than the initial delay time T_(IDT) will be explained. When theRF output period is allowed to be longer than the initial delay timeT_(IDT), another NFC communication device which intends to be theinitiator may output the electromagnetic wave.

However, at the beginning of communication (transaction), the commandsATR_REQ, ATR_RES, PSL2_REQ and PSL2_RES are exchanged as describedabove, and the bit 7 in the PPt field of the command ATR_REQ is “1” whenthe device operates in the intermittent RF output mode. That is, the NFCcommunication devices (the initiator and the target) can recognize thatthe communication started in a state in which the bit 7 in the PPt fieldof the command ATR_REQ is “1” is the communication of the intermittentRF output mode. Therefore, the NFC communication device which hasstarted the communication can avoid the response to output of theelectromagnetic wave from another NFC communication device which intendsto become the initiator in the communication after the bit 7 in the PPtfield is allowed to be “1”, until the bit 7 in the PPt field is allowedto be “0” next (until the intermittent RF output mode is released).Accordingly, even when the RF output OFF period is longer than theinitial delay time T_(IDT), it is possible to surely avoid theinterruption of communication in the active mode. Whether the bit 7 inthe PPi field and the PPt field is allowed to be “1” or not isdetermined by the application, which can be executed by the CPU 21 (FIG.4) or executed by a device incorporated in the NFC communication device.

Accordingly, the communication in the active mode is not interruptedeven when the RF output OFF period is longer than the initial delay timeT_(IDT). That is, the RF output OFF period and the RF output ON periodcan be optionally determined between the initiator and the target.

Note that the initial delay time T_(IDT) in the case in which the NFCcommunication device to be the initiator performs the initial RFCAprocessing again after the series of communication exchange(transaction) has completed can count the last RF output OFF period inthe previous transaction as part of the initial delay time T_(IDT).

In the above embodiment, the processing is started in the processingflow in the active mode of the NFCIP-1 at first and the communicationmode is changed to the passive mode when the transition to the passivemode is agreed regardless whether the target communication mode is theactive mode or the passive mode. There is an advantage in the processingflow that it is not necessary to change the processing flow of thepassive mode. Therefore, when compatibility of communication processingin the passive mode is not given priority, it is preferable that thesame processing flow as the processing shown in FIG. 9 is performed, andthe commands PSL2_REQ and PSL2_RES are performed in addition to thecommands PSL_REQ and PSL_RES in Step S19 and S20 to thereby execute thepower saving mode.

Because it is unclear that the target can operate in the power savingmode until receiving the response PSL2_RES in the above embodiment, thecommunication complying with NFCIP-1 is performed, namely, theelectromagnetic wave of 1.5 A/m or higher is outputted. However, forexample, when the assumption is made that the communication is performedonly with the target operating in the power saving mode according to thepurpose of communication, in other words, when the communication may notbe performed with the target which does not operate in the power savingmode, it is also preferable that the electromagnetic wave is outputtedin the low RF output mode from the start (from the processing of StepS101).

Moreover, in the above embodiment, the RF output ON period and the RFoutput OFF period are determined by the initiator (determined value istransmitted to the target), however, it is also preferable that the RFoutput ON period and the RF output OFF period are determined byperforming negotiation between the initiator and the target. Forexample, when the target desires to make the RF output ON period and theRF output OFF period longer (or shorter) than the value transmitted fromthe initiator, the target can transmits a desired value.

Also in the above embodiment, values to be the RF output ON period andthe RF output OFF period are set in Byte4 and Byte5 fields, Byte6 andByte7 fields respectively, and valid and invalid of the values are setin the bit 6 and the bit 5 of the FLAG field. Alternatively, valid andinvalid can be set by values to be set in Byte4 and Byte5 fields, Byte6and Byte7 fields. For example, when a value in the Byte4 and Byte5fields, Byte6 and Byte7 fields is “FFFF” or “0000”, it may be indicatedthat the intermittent output mode is invalid. It is also preferablethat, output of the electromagnetic wave is made to be OFF when thetransaction has completed, and the OFF state is kept until the device isactivated again by the application. The low RF output OK bit and thepassive OK bit can be also determined by performing negotiation betweenthe initiator and the target.

The point of the embodiment of the invention is that informationconcerning whether the low RF mode or the intermittent RF output mode ispossible or not can be exchanged between the initiator and the targetand the communication is performed in the low RF mode or theintermittent RF output mode which is agreed between them. Therefore, thecommand or the parameter used when the presence of the low RF mode andthe intermittent RF output mode functions as well as operationparameters are exchanged can be optionally selected.

[Verification of Power Saving Effect]

Next, the power saving effect by the power saving mode when the NFCcommunication device incorporated in a cell phone is operated as aninitiator will be verified on the assumption that the above NFCcommunication device is incorporated as part of the cell phone.

FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a cellphone in which the NFC communication device is incorporated.

A cell phone 51 includes a cell phone electronic circuit 61, a battery62, an NFC circuit 63 and an NFC antenna 64.

The cell phone electronic circuit 61 is an electromagnetic circuit whichrealizes an audio communication function of the cell phone 51. Thebattery 62 is formed by, for example, a lithium battery, supplying powerto both the cell phone electronic circuit 61 and the NFC circuit 63. Thebattery 62 is commonly used for the cell phone, for example, havingability of approximately 800 [mAh] in a supply voltage of 3.7 [V].

The NFC circuit 63 and the NFC antenna 64 correspond to respectivecomponents of the NFC communication device 1 shown in FIG. 4. That is,the NFC circuit 63 corresponds to the receiving unit 12 to the controlunit 21 and the NFC antenna 64 corresponds to the antenna 11. Since thepower is supplied from the buttery 62, the power supply unit 22 in FIG.4 is not included in the NFC circuit 63.

First, electric current flowing in the NFC antenna 64 when the NFCcircuit 63 of the cell phone 51 performs operations as the initiatorcomplying with NFCIP-1 is calculated.

The following relation holds between magnetic flux density B(Z) [μT] andthe magnetic field strength H [A/m].B(z)=μ₀ ×H  (1)

Here, μ₀ is a conversion constant, and μ₀=4Π10⁻⁷ [T/A/m].

As shown in FIG. 25, when an electric current C [A] flows in a circularcoil having a radius G[m], the magnetic flux density (a verticalcomponent of the circular coil) B(Z) [μT] in a distance W[m] from thecenter of the circular coil can be represented by the following formula(2).

$\begin{matrix}{{B(z)} = \frac{\mu_{0}{CG}^{2}}{2\left( {W^{2} + G^{2}} \right)^{\frac{3}{2}}}} & (2)\end{matrix}$

Accordingly, a formula (3) holds from the formula (1) and the formula(2).

$\begin{matrix}{\frac{\mu_{0}{CG}^{2}}{2\left( {W^{2} + G^{2}} \right)^{\frac{3}{2}}} = {\mu_{0} \times H}} & (3)\end{matrix}$

After changing the formula (3) so that the left side is only “C”, μ₀ iscancelled to thereby obtain a formula (4).

$\begin{matrix}{C = \frac{H \times 2\left( {W^{2} + G^{2}} \right)^{\frac{3}{2}}}{G^{2}}} & (4)\end{matrix}$

Accordingly, the electric current flowing in the NFC antenna 64 can becalculated by substituting conditions in which the NFC circuit 63 of thecell phone 51 performs operations as the initiator complying withNFCIP-1 into the formula (4).

NFCIP-1 prescribes that the electromagnetic wave is outputted in powerwithin 1.5 [A/m] to 7.5 [A/m]. The initiator outputs the electromagneticwave in power of 1.5 [A/m] which is the lower limit for allowing theduration of the battery 62 to be as long as possible. The operationrange (proximity distance) is within 3 [cm] because of the limitedmounting space in the cell phone. Assume that the NFC antenna 64 of thecell phone 51 is wound once in a circular manner (circular shape), and aradius of the circle is 1.5 [cm].

Accordingly, W=0.03 [m], G=0.015 [m], μ₀=4Π10⁻⁷ and H=1.5 [A/m] aresubstituted into the formula (4) respectively.

As a result, the following formula holds.

$\begin{matrix}{C = \frac{1.5 \times 2 \times \left( {0.03^{2} + 0.015^{2}} \right)^{\frac{3}{2}}}{0.015^{2}}} \\{\approx {0.5A}}\end{matrix}$

That is, when the cell phone 51 outputs the electromagnetic wave as theinitiator, the NFC circuit 63 allows the electric current of 0.5 [A] toflow in the NFC antenna 64 by the NFC circuit 63 continuously, therebyassuring the magnetic field strength of 1.5 [A/m] at a position 3 [cm]apart from the NFC antenna 64.

Next, the duration of the battery 62 in the case that the electriccurrent of 0.5 [A) (500 [mA]) is allowed to flow in the NFC antenna 64continuously is calculated under a condition that the efficiency of theelectronic circuit is 30%. In this case, 60×800/500=96 [min],96×0.3=28.8 [min], as a result, the duration is 28.8 minutes.

Next, the duration in the case that the communication in the low RFoutput mode is performed is calculated under the same condition.

In the low RF output mode, the power of the electromagnetic wave is just0.3 [A/m], therefore, H=0.3 [A/m], W=0.03 [m], G=0.015 [m] aresubstituted into the formula (4) to calculate an electric current Csatisfying the magnetic field H=1.5 [A/m] at a position 3 cm apart fromthe center of the NFC antenna 64, as a result, 0.167 [A] can beobtained.

Then, when the duration is calculated under a condition that theefficiency of the electronic circuit is 30% in the same manner as theabove, 60×800/167=287 [min], 287×0.3=86.2 [min], as a result, theduration will be 86.2 minutes.

According to the above, 86.2/28.8=2.99, therefore, it is possible toextend the duration of the battery 62 approximately threefold whenoperations as the initiator are performed in the low RF output mode.That is, the power consumption can be reduced by the low RF output mode.

In the intermittent RF output mode, the duration of the battery 62 canbe extended in proportion to RF output OFF period to be secured.Therefore, it is possible to reduce power consumption also in theintermittent RF output mode.

In the above example, the explanation have been made by determining thelower limit value of power of the electromagnetic wave in the low RFoutput mode is 0.3 [A/m], however, it is not always necessary that thelower limit value is 0.3 [A/m]. For example, the lower limit value maybe 0.15 [A/m] prescribed in ISO/IEC 15693 and the like, or other valuesmay also be used.

In the embodiment, steps described in the flowcharts includes not onlyprocessing executed along the described order in time series but alsoprocessing executed in parallel or individually, though not alwaysprocessed in time series.

It should be understood that various changes and modifications to thepresently preferred embodiments described herein will be apparent tothose skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications can be madewithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present subjectmatter and without diminishing its intended advantages. It is thereforeintended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appendedclaims.

1. A communication device comprising: an electromagnetic-wave generatingmeans for outputting an electromagnetic wave; and atransmitting/receiving means for transmitting data by modulating theelectromagnetic wave in accordance with data as well as receiving datatransmitted from the other device by demodulating the electromagneticwave outputted by the electromagnetic-wave generating means or theelectromagnetic wave outputted by the other device as the other party ofcommunication, wherein the transmitting/receiving means transmitsattribute information indicating communication ability of the deviceitself as well as receives attribute information indicatingcommunication ability of the other device as the data, theelectromagnetic-wave generating means turns off the output of theelectromagnetic wave for a given period of time after the transmissionof the data based on the attribute information, the attributeinformation transmitted and received by the transmitting/receiving meansincludes information concerning the given period of time for whichoutput of the electromagnetic wave is turned off, and theelectromagnetic-wave generating means turns off output of theelectromagnetic wave for the given time determined by the attributeinformation.
 2. The communication device according to claim 1, wherein,in an active mode in which data is transmitted by modulating theelectromagnetic wave in accordance with data as well as data transmittedfrom the other device is received by demodulating the electromagneticwave outputted by the other device, the electromagnetic-wave generatingmeans turns off output of the electromagnetic wave for a given period oftime shorter than an initial delay time which is the minimum time forwhich a device which intends to start transmission/reception of datahave to check that the electromagnetic wave is not output.
 3. Thecommunication device according to claim 1, wherein, when the givenperiod of time is longer than the initial delay time which is theminimum time for which a device which intends to starttransmission/reception of data have to check that the electromagneticwave is not output, the communication device does not respond to outputof the electromagnetic wave from another device which intends to starttransmission/reception of data until the communication mode in whichoutput of the electromagnetic wave is turned off during the given periodof time is released.
 4. A communication method for a communicationdevice including an electromagnetic-wave generating means for outputtingan electromagnetic wave and a transmitting/receiving means fortransmitting data by modulating the electromagnetic wave in accordancewith data as well as receiving data transmitted from another device bydemodulating the electromagnetic wave outputted by theelectromagnetic-wave generating means or the electromagnetic waveoutputted by the other device as the other party of communication, themethod comprising: transmitting attribute information indicatingcommunication ability of the device as well as receiving attributeinformation indicating communication ability of the other device as thedata by the transmitting/receiving means; and turning off output of theelectromagnetic wave for a given period of time after transmission ofthe data based on the attribute information by the electromagnetic-wavegenerating means, wherein the attribute information includes informationconcerning the given period of time for which output of theelectromagnetic wave is turned off, and the output of theelectromagnetic wave is turned off for the given time determined by theattribute information.
 5. A non-transitory computer readable storagemedium storing a computer program including instructions that whenexecuted by a processor perform steps for transmitting attributeinformation indicating communication ability of a device as well asreceiving attribute information indicating communication ability ofanother device as data by the transmitting/receiving means fortransmitting data by modulating the electromagnetic wave in accordancewith data as well as receiving data transmitted from the other device bydemodulating the electromagnetic wave outputted by theelectromagnetic-wave generating means or the electromagnetic waveoutputted by the other device as the other party of communication, andturning off output of the electromagnetic wave for a given period oftime after transmission of the data based on the attribute informationby the electromagnetic-wave generating means, wherein the attributeinformation includes information concerning the given period of time forwhich output of the electromagnetic wave is turned off, and the outputof the electromagnetic wave is turned off for the given time determinedby the attribute information.
 6. A communication system comprising: afirst communication device; and a second communication device which isthe other party of communication, wherein the first communication deviceincludes an electromagnetic-wave generating means for outputting anelectromagnetic wave, and a first transmitting/receiving means fortransmitting data by modulating the electromagnetic wave in accordancewith data as well as receiving data transmitted from the secondcommunication device by demodulating the electromagnetic wave outputtedby the electromagnetic-wave generating means or the electromagnetic waveoutputted by the second communication device, the firsttransmitting/receiving means transmits attribute information indicatingcommunication ability of the first communication device as well asreceives attribute information indicating communication ability of thesecond communication device as data, the electromagnetic-wave generatingmeans turns off output of the electromagnetic wave for a given period oftime after transmission of the data based on the attribute information,wherein the attribute information transmitted and received by the firsttransmitting receiving means includes information concerning the givenperiod of time for which output of the electromagnetic wave is turnedoff, and the electromagnetic-wave generating means turns off output ofthe electromagnetic wave for the given time determined by the attributeinformation; the second communication device includes a secondtransmitting/receiving means for receiving data transmitted from thefirst communication device by demodulating the electromagnetic waveoutputted by the first communication device as well as transmitting databy modulating the electromagnetic wave outputted by the firstcommunication device or the electromagnetic wave outputted by the devicefor itself in accordance with the data, and the secondtransmitting/receiving means receives attribute information indicatingcommunication ability of the first communication device as well astransmits attribute information indicating communication ability of thesecond communication device as data.
 7. A communication devicecomprising: an electromagnetic-wave generating unit configured to outputan electromagnetic wave; and a transmitting/receiving unit configured totransmit data by modulating the electromagnetic wave in accordance withdata as well as receive data transmitted from another device bydemodulating the electromagnetic wave outputted by theelectromagnetic-wave generating unit or the electromagnetic waveoutputted by the other device as the other party of communication,wherein the transmitting/receiving unit transmits attribute informationindicating communication ability of the communication device as well asreceives attribute information indicating communication ability of theother device as the data, the electromagnetic-wave generating unit turnsoff the output of the electromagnetic wave for a given period of timeafter the transmission of the data based on the attribute information,the attribute information transmitted and received by thetransmitting/receiving unit includes information concerning the givenperiod of time for which output of the electromagnetic wave is turnedoff, and the electromagnetic-wave generating unit turns off output ofthe electromagnetic wave for the given time determined by the attributeinformation.
 8. A communication system comprising: a first communicationdevice; and a second communication device which is the other party ofcommunication, wherein the first communication device includes anelectromagnetic-wave generating unit configured to output anelectromagnetic wave, and a first transmitting/receiving unit configuredto transmit data by modulating the electromagnetic wave in accordancewith data as well as receive data transmitted from the secondcommunication device by demodulating the electromagnetic wave outputtedby the electromagnetic-wave generating unit or the electromagnetic waveoutputted by the second communication device, the firsttransmitting/receiving unit transmits attribute information indicatingcommunication ability of the first communication device as well asreceives attribute information indicating communication ability of thesecond communication device as data, the electromagnetic-wave generatingunit turns off output of the electromagnetic wave for a given period oftime after transmission of the data based on the attribute information,wherein the attribute information transmitted and received by the firsttransmitting/receiving unit includes information concerning the givenperiod of time for which output of the electromagnetic wave is turnedoff, and the electromagnetic-wave generating unit turns off output ofthe electromagnetic wave for the given time determined by the attributeinformation; the second communication device includes a secondtransmitting/receiving unit configured to receive data transmitted fromthe first communication device by demodulating the electromagnetic waveoutputted by the first communication device as well as transmit data bymodulating the electromagnetic wave outputted by the first communicationdevice or the electromagnetic wave outputted by the device for itself inaccordance with the data, and the second transmitting/receiving unitreceives attribute information indicating communication ability of thefirst communication device as well as transmits attribute informationindicating communication ability of the second communication device asdata.